President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu has called upon Fiji’s legal community to prioritize transparency and inclusiveness in the upcoming constitutional reforms, stressing that the process must be shaped by the people. During his address at the Attorney General’s Conference in Nadi, he highlighted the importance of establishing a stronger national foundation, especially considering that Fiji’s previous four constitutions have struggled to gain widespread acceptance.
Ratu Naiqama emphasized that true public ownership of the new Constitution can only be realized through a genuine, nationwide dialogue rather than hastily arranged consultations. He remarked, “Let us not have constitutional consultations merely to tick a box. The people should be heard at every stage—from the beginning, including the preparation of the terms of reference, the appointment of members of the Constitutional Review Commission, and the formulation of consultation documents through public hearings.”
In his address, Ratu Naiqama encouraged a collaborative effort between the Attorney General’s Office and the Great Council of Chiefs as the constitutional review progresses. He expressed hope that this partnership would foster a more engaged public discourse, paving the way for a Constitution that truly reflects the will of the Fijian people. The President’s emphasis on engagement and inclusivity suggests a positive turn towards a more participatory governance approach in Fiji’s constitutional reform journey.